Hood County Senior Center celebrates 35

It’s been a place for a hot meal and warm friendships for the past 35 years. The Hood County Senior Center celebrated its 35th birthday with a large crowd Wednesday for a chicken-fried steak luncheon, complete with birthday cake for dessert.

In a brief program before lunch, former board member Vircy Macatee said the center has been an important part of her life. She noted that both she and her late husband served many years on the board of directors.

Macatee recalled the origins of the center at the Shanley House rock building. “We outgrew it and moved to the American Legion Hall. And now we have this beautiful property,” Macatee said of the center’s current location at 501 E. Moore St.

Macatee also praised the Meals on Wheels program which is operated through the Senior Center. “I was a recipient of this program during a time that I was not able to get around. It’s a great service.”

Also speaking at the program, Jennifer Roy recalled her days as a teenager at the center. “My mom, Sue Pilcher, was a former director at the center.”

Roy said she remembered being with her mother when the Senior Center was at Shanley House. “As a 14-year-old kid, I was introduced to 100 grandparents,” she stated.

Fighting back tears, Roy shared many memories from the early days. “The volunteers at the center taught me to have a servant’s heart.”

Jo Leet, a regular at the Senior Center, told of many times when various programs or friends from the center had played important roles in her life. “It’s been a blessing to meet so many people here,” she stated. “Some of the most important people are the dedicated staff.”

Leet talked of many activities at the center, including tax help, help with insurance, various field trips, bingo, bridge and lively games at the pool table. “A lot of our widowed members have met others here and re-married,” she noted.

Senior Center Director Mindy Hodges said the center has a rich history, and is always moving forward. She explained that the programs at the center are always growing and evolving.

The “Go Getter” award was presented to Jane Roberts, manager of ReRuns Resale Shop. The shop is located at 113 N. Cleburne, and sales of donated items benefit the Senior Center.

The Hood County Committee on Aging Board oversees operation of the Hood County Senior Center. To reach the center, call 817-573-5533.